Paris Olympics: 20-Year-Old Gymnastics Star Who Narrated a Disturbing Tale, Explains Father’s Role in Career

Viktoriia Onopriienko, the Ukrainian rhythmic gymnast who graced the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, is known for her resilience. Despite being just 20 years old, she soared to victory, claiming gold at the 2023 European Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships held in Baku, Azerbaijan. Remarkably, she attributes much of her success to her father. Notably, during that period, Viktoriia’s father, Maksym, was serving in the military and bravely defending his homeland in Kyiv.

But the gymnast persevered, turning her dream of competing in Paris into a tangible reality. In a recent revelation, she eloquently shared the arduous journey she embarked upon to scale such remarkable heights. What stands out most is her heartfelt acknowledgment of her father’s indispensable role in her victories.

 Viktoriia Onopriienko’s journey extrapolated on celluloid

Recently, the Olympic Channel filmed “Viktoriia: Ukraine’s Gymnastics Hope” offers an intimate look into Onopriienko’s journey. Here, she grapples with new and painful realities while striving to secure her spot at the Paris Games. In a poignant moment captured on celluloid, after her triumph at the European Championships, Onopriienko was confronted with the heartwarming sight of gymnasts being embraced by their parents.

Reflecting on her own situation, she poignantly remarks, “Oh their parents are here, and our parents are at the front.” She is referring to the war where her father is serving. She adds, “There’s no chance to even get a text from him in this condition.“ Despite facing these challenges, Onopriienko’s gold medal in Azerbaijan was a historic achievement.

It marked Ukraine’s first individual exercise medal at the European Championships in 18 years. Yet, amidst the glory of her triumph, she graciously acknowledges the pivotal role played by her father in her journey. In heartfelt words, she reveals, “He is my dad, my friend, my coach. He would come up with the right words that would inspire me and I’d keep going and do my job.“Onopriienko’s sentiment encapsulates the profound influence a parent can have on an athlete’s career. What’s led to her ascent to glory though?

From rhythmic gymnastics to Olympic sensation-incredible story of Viktoriia’s rise

Viktoriia began gymnastics when she was four years old while exploring different activities along the way, including a short stint, in figure skating for three months. However, she ultimately chose to focus on gymnastics. Her peak success came after her performance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she clinched the tenth position in the all-around final. Her prowess extends to national levels as well, reigning as the 2021 Ukrainian all-around champion and earning the 2018 European team silver medal during her junior years.

At the prestigious 2022 World Games, Onopriienko got qualified for the hoop final but finished eighth. Her triumph marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time since 2013 that a Ukrainian rhythmic gymnast secured a medal at the World Games. As her next goal is Paris Olympics it will be interesting to watch her.